The Great White Concert Fire at The Station

The Station nightclub fire, during a 2003 Great White concert, killed 100 people and injured 230. The fire was started by pyrotechnics igniting flammable acoustic foam in the walls and ceiling. The club was overcrowded, with 462 people in a venue with a capacity of 404. The fire spread rapidly due to the lack of sprinklers and a series of other terrible circumstances, including fire alarms that weren't connected to the fire department, blocked exits, and a delayed response.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, multiple parties were held responsible. Club owners Jeffrey and Michael Derderian were charged with 200 counts of involuntary manslaughter, while band tour manager Daniel Biechele faced the same charges for setting off the fireworks. Biechele received a four-year prison sentence, and the Derderians each received suspended sentences and probation.

The Station fire led to significant changes in fire safety regulations, including stricter fire codes and a ban on pyrotechnics in certain venues. The tragedy also resulted in numerous lawsuits and settlements, with victims and families receiving $176 million in compensation. A permanent memorial was built at the fire site, and the Station Education Fund was launched to support children who lost parents in the fire.

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